Did you know? Of the 469 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway within North Carolina, Avery County is home to about 23 of those miles. Make sure to stop at one of several "overlooks" along the way and take in those beautiful views!

Pack a picnic and meet your friends for Summer Concerts at the Park. Every Thursday evening from June until September features live music by regional bands. Music begins at 6:30 p.m., but don't forget your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the music under the stars.

Spend a weekend exploring hand-made arts and crafts at Art on the Greene. Three times each summer, the green at the Historic Banner Elk School comes to life with Art on the Greene, featuring quality, hand-made arts and crafts from select regional and national artisans.

Did you know? Proceeds from the shows are used for restoration of the Historic Banner Elk School which was built in 1939 during the Great Depression.

Have fun and unwind

Take a walk through Lees-McRae’s beautiful campus or the nearby Greenway Trail.

Did you know? Over the course of the year, the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center cares for more than 1,500 injured wildlife of varying species from the Eastern Gray Squirrel to the Lees-McRae mascot, the Bobcat!

Did you know? This year will mark the 62nd annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games. The event is considered one of the first, and biggest, Highland Game celebrations in the U.S. and features traditional Scottish sport competitions and performances.

A little short on time?
No problem! Here are our top five picks for your day in the beautiful high country!